Editor’s note: The headline has been updated to reflect that the allegations are part of a lawsuit.
UPPER EAST SIDE, Manhattan (PIX11) – A woman is suing Chipotle after she claims she found a mouse in her burrito bowl.
Gia Bernhardt made the horrifying discovery in January when she bit into her burrito bowl, accidentally taking a bite of mouse instead of chicken, according to her lawyer, Steven Vaccaro.
The 23-year-old had ordered from a Chipotle location on Third Avenue using DoorDash, according to the suit filed Monday. Bernhardt’s lawyer told PIX11 News in a statement that she “immediately became sick,” vomiting after she “actually bit off a piece of the rodent.”
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Once she composed herself, Bernhardt returned to the Chipotle and requested to speak with management, according to her lawyer.
“She showed the rodent to the three employees who were present. They tried to convince her that what she had there was a piece of chicken, but the ears, nose and tail demonstrated otherwise,” Gucciardo told PIX11 News.
The employees kept and threw away the alleged rodent, according to Bernhardt’s lawyer. She went to the hospital afterwards for medical treatment and testing.
Gucciardo said the incident left Bernhardt “scarred.”
In a statement to PIX11 News, a Chipotle spokesperson denied the accusation.
“We strongly deny the allegations in this complaint, and we will vigorously defend ourselves against these claims,” said Laurie Schalow, Chief Corporate Affairs and Food Safety Officer. “The health and safety of our employees and guests is our highest priority, and we have industry-leading food safety practices in place across our restaurants.”
Bernhardt is also holding DoorDash and its driver responsible. DoorDash did not immediately respond to PIX11 News’ request for comment.